Overview
- The rematch between Republican Rep. Scott Perry and Democrat Janelle Stelson is a close, high-stakes contest in a battleground district that includes parts of Dauphin, York and Cumberland counties.
- Incumbent Scott Perry has served in the seat since 2013, is a Trump ally and former House Freedom Caucus member, and faces revived scrutiny over his efforts after the 2020 election that investigators examined.
- Challenger Janelle Stelson is a longtime local television anchor who won the 2026 Democratic primary and secured an endorsement from Gov. Josh Shapiro as she presses for change on the economy and local development.
- A late campaign debate crystallized sharp contrasts on foreign policy, rising prices and local issues such as data centers and housing, and campaign messaging has focused on those voter concerns.
- Because only a handful of House seats will determine control of the chamber, the final vote in this district could shift committee lines, legislative priorities and federal attention to local economic and development decisions.